Whether you are looking for ideas for building a new home, modifying your existing one, or looking for a way to increase the value of your property, there are many reasons why a silicone rendering system may be the best option. This article will discuss 8 reasons that make this choice an excellent one!
What is silicone rendering?
Silicone rendering is a type of liquid material that can be applied to surfaces as a sealant or protective coating. It offers excellent protection against water, gas and dust penetration on any surface application-including metal flashing, panelling and facades for your home building project!
Silicone rendering may also be chosen as insulation in a building project and was used on the “house on the hill”..
It has many benefits that make it an excellent choice in the construction industry. Read on to find out more!
8 reasons to choose silicone rendering
1) Durability
Silicone renders are a thicker and more durable option that can last for 30+ years. According to Render Hero they do not have the same problems associated with cracking like acrylic renderings, which makes them an excellent choice for homes in windy areas or those with high levels of humidity.
Silicone rendering is a polymer that, when added to water and mixed with other ingredients, creates an aggregate. It is often used as the final coat of cement on buildings because it resists cracking and peeling due to weather conditions such as extreme heat or cold.
2) Application
Silicone renderings are applied by pouring directly onto the surface and trowelling it into place.
Acrylic rendering is a liquid that can be brushed, sprayed or poured on to the desired area of application before going through an air-drying process and curing for up to two weeks.
It is important to note that acrylic renderings do offer more options in terms of thickness, but silicone renders have been shown as being easier to apply with better coverage overall. This may make them more appealing depending on your needs!
3) Colour
Silicone renderings are typically white and have been shown to better reflect natural light, unlike acrylic renderings which often take on a yellowish tone.
Silicone rendering systems also dry quicker than its acrylic counterpart (approximately one hour versus two weeks), so if you need an application in a hurry this could be the product for you!
Acrylics can also produce more glare from direct sunlight and may not offer the same level of clarity as silicone renders do.
Silicone renders also have the colour already mixed in which can help to save on application time as only one coat is required.
4) Breathability
Unlike acrylic rendering, silicone renders are porous and allow water vapor to pass through the render. This is especially important in colder climates where moisture content can be an issue for condensation build-up or frost.
Silicone does not have the same level of insulation that other options may offer so it’s best suited for warmer environments as opposed to those with extreme weather conditions.
Acrylics on the other hand are more resistant to cold temperatures and depending on how they’re applied could also provide some insulating properties.
5) Cost
The cost of silicone rendering is often a deciding factor for many homeowners. It’s more affordable than acrylic rendering and does not require the same level of skill to apply which can make it an attractive option, especially for DIY enthusiasts.
Silicone has less longevity compared to other options so you may need to reapply after as little as five years in some climates but if the budget allows it could be well worth considering for those looking at rendering their own home or property without requiring professional help. The application process is relatively straightforward with silicone renderings applied like paint rather than needing any specialist knowledge unlike when applying other materials such as stucco cladding or insulation boards.
6) Water-repellent
You can find silicone render systems at your local hardware shops, online suppliers and even on some DIY TV shows. They are usually water-repellent so if you do need to reapply after five years it would be an easy process with no specialist knowledge required. Silicone’s affordability combined with its ease of application make this a popular choice for many homeowners looking to get the job done without any fuss or mess!
7) Flexibility
The flexibility of a silicone render system is another important benefit. It’s soft and pliable which means that it can be applied to curves, corners and other difficult areas with ease without any cracking or crumbling!
8) Appearance
The appearance of the material is another reason to choose silicone rendering. It has a matt, opaque finish which complements brick and other traditional exterior facade designs beautifully. The matte finish will also help reduce glare from sunlight as well as keep your home warmer in the winter months!
Both products come with different strengths and weaknesses depending on what your needs are – take some time researching before making any decisions. Remember that both types of rendering offer great options in their own right and there is no “right” answer here – it’s up to you which product best suits your project needs so look into them carefully before deciding!
